TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Jewelry is not just a symbol of luxury; it can also be a testament to remarkable craftsmanship and rarity. From historical crowns to contemporary creations, some pieces command astronomical prices. Here’s a look at the most expensive jewelry in the world and what makes them so valuable.
1. Koh-i-Noor – $10 to $20 Billion
The Koh-i-Noor is considered the most expensive piece of jewelry ever. Valued between $10 billion and $20 billion, this diamond is part of the British Crown Jewels. Originally weighing 793 carats, it was cut down to 105.6 carats. Its size and clarity make it the largest colorless diamond in existence.
2. The Hope Diamond – $250 Million
The Hope Diamond, a 45.52-carat deep blue gemstone, is famous not only for its stunning color but also for its storied past. Believed to be cursed, this diamond was stolen from a royal family in the 17th century and has been a subject of fascination ever since. Today, it resides in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
3. The Heritage in Bloom – $200 Million
Crafted by Chinese jeweler Wallace Chan, The Heritage in Bloom is a masterpiece that took 47,000 hours to create. Weighing 383.4 carats, this necklace showcases intricate Chinese designs and reflects the exceptional skill of its creator.
4. Peacock Brooch – $100 Million
Designed by Graff Diamonds, the Peacock Brooch is a 20.2-carat jewel that mimics the vibrant colors of a peacock’s feathers. Its blue, red, and yellow stones make it a standout piece, symbolizing the beauty and elegance of nature.
5. Wittelsbach – $80 Million
The Wittelsbach diamond, a 31.06-carat blue gemstone, was originally owned by the King of Spain in the 17th century. This historical piece, now owned by Graff Diamonds, is renowned for its deep blue color and historical significance.
6. The Pink Star – $71.2 Million
The Pink Star set a record as the most expensive piece of jewelry ever auctioned, fetching $71.2 million in 2017. Mined by De Beers from South Africa, this 59.60-carat pink diamond is known for its vibrant hue and exceptional quality.
7. Oppenheimer Blue – $57.5 Million
Named after its former owner, Sir Phillip Oppenheimer, the Oppenheimer Blue is a 14.62-carat vivid blue diamond. It holds the record for the largest blue diamond ever sold at auction, justifying its hefty price tag.
8. Apollo and Artemis Earrings – $57.4 Million
The Apollo and Artemis earrings, which sold for $57.4 million, feature stunning blue and pink diamonds. The Apollo earring weighs 14.54 carats, while the Artemis earring is 16.00 carats. These pieces are celebrated for their striking colors and impeccable craftsmanship.
9. L’Incomparable Necklace – $55 Million
Crafted by Lebanese jeweler Mouawad, the L’Incomparable Necklace is valued at $55 million. It features 91 clear diamonds and a large yellow diamond, totaling 637 carats. The necklace was reportedly discovered by a young girl in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
10. Blue Moon of Josephine – $48.4 Million
The Blue Moon of Josephine was bought for $48.4 million by Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau Len-Hueng for his daughter. Discovered in South Africa in 2014, this 12.03-carat blue diamond is named after Lau’s daughter, Josephine.
11. Pink Emerald Ring – $46.4 Million
Another creation by Graff Diamonds, the Pink Emerald Ring is valued at $46.4 million. This ring features a 24.78-carat pink emerald, making it one of the most expensive pieces of jewelry in the world.
These extraordinary pieces of jewelry are not just about their cost but also about their unique characteristics, historical significance, and the exceptional craftsmanship that went into creating them.